How I Score Extra Legroom Seats on Budget Airlines Without Paying for It

If you’re flying basic economy or traveling on a budget airline, you might think you’re doomed to a cramped middle seat in the back of the plane. But I’ve discovered a little trick that often lands me in a better seat—sometimes even an extra legroom row—without paying a cent.

The Key? Delay Your Check-In

Most travelers are eager to check in as soon as the 24-hour window opens. But on budget airlines, that could actually work against you. Here’s why:

1. Budget Airlines Prioritize Paid Seat Selection

By nature, budget airlines make their money on add-ons—seat selection, baggage fees, and priority boarding. Many travelers booking these flights aren’t willing to pay extra, so when they check in online, the system assigns them the least desirable seats (usually in the back of the plane).

2. The Front Rows Cost More—But Not for Everyone

The first five rows of the plane are typically more expensive, with the first row often labeled as "premium." These seats not only offer extra legroom but also let you deplane faster, which means you could get through immigration or baggage claim ahead of the crowd. Even seats that are identical to those in the back cost more simply because they’re closer to the front.

3. Airlines Fill the Plane from Back to Front

Since the back of the plane is the least desirable, airlines start filling those seats first for passengers who check in early and haven’t selected a seat. The later you check in, the fewer back-row seats remain, pushing you closer to the front—or even into extra legroom seats if they’re unassigned.

How to Use This to Your Advantage

• Wait to check in. Don’t check in right at the 24-hour mark. Instead, hold off until much closer to departure—ideally a few hours before your flight, but before the check-in deadline (usually 45-60 minutes before departure for domestic flights).

• Monitor the seating chart. If your airline allows you to preview seat assignments before check-in, you’ll notice the back seats filling up first. As more passengers check in, you’ll see availability shift forward.

• Let the airline assign your seat. If you don’t pick a seat yourself, the system will place you in the best available spot at the time of check-in. If the back is full, you’ll get pushed forward—sometimes even into premium seats.

One Caveat: Not Ideal for Families or Couples

While this strategy can work wonders for solo travelers, it’s not the best approach for couples or families traveling together. Since budget airlines assign remaining seats based on availability, waiting until the last minute almost guarantees you’ll be split up.

However, if you’re flying solo, it’s absolutely worth a shot. You’re already more likely to be assigned a middle seat, so this strategy increases your chances of landing an aisle seat, sitting closer to the front for a quicker exit, and potentially scoring an extra legroom seat.

Bonus Tip: Get Off the Plane Faster

Even if you don’t land in an extra legroom seat, simply being in the first few rows means you’ll deplane faster. That’s a big win if you have a tight connection, want to beat the crowd to immigration, or just want to get to your hotel sooner.

Want to Skip the Stress? Get the Right Credit Card

If you fly budget airlines often but want perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, or airport lounge access, having the right airline credit card can make all the difference. Many top travel credit cards offer these benefits, which can save you money and improve your overall flying experience.

Check out my list of the best airline credit cards here and find the right card to upgrade your travel game.

Final Thoughts

Flying budget doesn’t mean you have to suffer in the worst seat. By strategically delaying your check-in, you give yourself a shot at a better seat—without spending a dime. If you’re traveling solo, try it on your next flight and let me know if it works for you!